145 delegates attended the third Annual Marina Conference recently organised by British Marine Federation in conjunction with the UK CMM Group and the Yacht Harbour Association. The event was held at Southampton Solent University Conference Centre and was proudly sponsored by Walcon Marine.

The day began with an innovative and interesting presentation by Kelvin Boot, Director of the National Aquarium in Plymouth, who spoke about climate change and the need for us to take action sooner rather than later. This was followed by a range of speakers giving presentations on a variety of subjects that have significant relevance to the day-to-day operation of modern marinas, including estate management, maintenance dredging, refurbishment and reconfiguration, and tips on how to increase sales and cut costs. Carol Fulford, of Marina World Magazine, gave a fascinating insight into modern marina developments around the world.

In addition, the International Marina Institute was delighted to award 4 marina managers with their CMM certificates (Certificated Marina Managers). This has taken the number of qualified CMMs to 199 worldwide. The successful individuals had graduated from the Advanced Marina Management School and completed an extensive portfolio about their career to date, including industry references.

Following the presentations, there was a champagne reception for delegates, sponsored by Walcon, which provided a great networking opportunity for delegates and a chance to liaise with the day's speakers.
It has to be said that these conferences represent a significant step forward in the development and evolution of the UK CMM programme. They are intended as a stage towards Continuing Professional Development within the only professionally recognised marina managers' qualification anywhere in the world.